New for You: The Universal Charitable Deduction

If you make cash donations to nonprofits such as CARE, there’s a new way you could save on your taxes.

It’s called the universal charitable deduction.

Starting this year, you can give up to $1,000 (single filers) or $2,000 (married couples) in cash and still receive a charitable deduction—even if you don’t itemize. So even smaller donations can benefit you as you make an impact at CARE. (Note: Gifts to donor advised funds are excluded from this benefit.)

You can claim this deduction on top of the standard deduction, which for 2026 is $16,100 (single) and $32,200 (married filing jointly). If you are 65 or older, you may claim an additional deduction of $2,050 more (single filer) or $1,650 more (per qualifying individual if married filing jointly).

Also, for tax years through 2028, eligible seniors receive yet another deduction: $6,000 (single filer) or $12,000 (per qualifying individual if married filing jointly)—though this phases out at higher income levels.

Add it all up, and you get an easy new way to help those we serve right away while reducing your taxes. Talk to your tax professional about how this deduction aligns with your charitable goals. When you are ready to make a gift to support CARE, contact Planned Giving Office at 1-800-752-6004 or plannedgiving@care.org for a no-obligation conversation.

Beyond Cash Giving: More Options for You

You may still benefit if you give appreciated stock or real estate, which eliminates capital gains tax on the growth, even if you don’t itemize. If you are 70½ or older, you can make a gift directly from your IRA to CARE. You pay no tax on the distribution, and if you are required to take minimum distributions, it can satisfy all or part of that obligation.